Welcome to the Aurora Ice Museum, a fascinating blend of innovation, art, and the natural beauty of Alaska. This remarkable establishment, situated at Chena Hot Springs Resort, was conceived as part of an ambitious project to create an ice hotel. However, when the original plan proved too challenging, the vision was adapted, and the museum was born. Since its completion in 2005, the Aurora Ice Museum has stood as the world’s largest year-round ice environment, an engineering marvel made possible by a unique geothermal absorption chiller that maintains a constant temperature of 25 degrees Fahrenheit.
The museum is a testament to the artistic prowess of world-renowned ice sculptors Steve and Heather Brice. Their work graces the icy halls, where visitors can marvel at intricate sculptures, from life-sized jousting knights to a whimsical non-functioning ice toilet. Chandeliers crafted from ice hang above, changing colors to mimic the mesmerizing Northern Lights, a nod to the natural wonders that surround Fairbanks.
Beyond the sculptures, the museum offers a unique experience at the Aurora Ice Bar, where you can enjoy an Appletini served in a glass carved from ice. This blend of art and hospitality captures the spirit of the museum, making each visit a memorable experience.
The Aurora Ice Museum is more than just an attraction; it is a symbol of sustainable innovation. It supports the Chena Hot Springs Resort’s mission of using renewable energy, showcasing how art and environmental consciousness can coexist. Whether you are drawn by the allure of the Northern Lights or the captivating artistry of ice, the Aurora Ice Museum promises a visit you won’t soon forget.
